Şişli Mosque, Islamic mosque in Şişli, Istanbul, Turkey
The Şişli Mosque is a religious building in Şişli, Istanbul, featuring a central dome supported by three half-domes and a minaret. The structure includes a walled courtyard with three entry points where visitors enter the prayer hall.
This structure opened in 1949 and represents the first mosque constructed in Turkey following the establishment of the Turkish Republic in 1923. Its construction reflected a gradual shift toward renewed religious architecture in the nation's urban centers.
The mosque displays classical Ottoman architectural elements, with marble columns and calligraphic inscriptions visible throughout the interior. These decorative details reflect the artistic traditions that visitors can observe while walking through the prayer space.
The prayer hall features rose-colored carpets and underground heating systems that keep the space comfortable year-round. A central marble fountain in the courtyard is available for ritual washing before prayers and is easily accessible to visitors.
Unlike traditional mosques built with support from sultans, this structure was funded through contributions from the local community. It follows the First National Architecture style, a local design movement that emerged during the nation's post-republic building phase.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
